Red Wings, goaltender Jimmy Howard agree to six-year, $31.8M deal

The deal keeps Howard off the market as a free agent this summer. General manager Ken Holland says Howard is entering the prime of his career and has developed into a top-tier NHL goalie.

The 29-year-old Howard in his fourth season as the Red Wings' top goalie. He was drafted by the team in the second round in 2003.

Howard is 17-12-6 with a 2.31 goals against average and a .920 save percentage this season. Detroit is currently tied for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Red Wings are trying to extend their post-season streak to 22 years.